One of the biggest misconceptions about fertility preservation—such as egg freezing—is that it’s a “last resort” option. In reality, it’s most effective when pursued earlier, ideally before any decline in egg quality or reproductive health begins.
For individuals with medical conditions like endometriosis, cancer, or autoimmune diseases, early intervention can be life-changing. Fertility preservation offers the chance to safeguard their reproductive potential before treatment begins. Likewise, those who may be delaying parenthood due to career, education, or personal reasons can benefit from freezing eggs at a time when fertility is still strong.
Unfortunately, many people aren’t made aware of these options until it’s much later—when success rates may be lower, and decisions become more urgent and emotionally complex.
Access Remains a Barrier
While treatments like IVF, egg freezing, and embryo preservation are more advanced and widely available than ever, they come with a cost—and not just financially.
In Canada, only a few provinces offer partial public funding for fertility treatments, and insurance coverage varies widely. As a result, many people who would benefit from these treatments face significant out-of-pocket expenses. For others, especially those from marginalized or underrepresented communities, systemic barriers and a lack of information can further limit access.
Fertility care should not be a luxury—it is a vital aspect of healthcare that deserves equitable access for all.
The Emotional and Physical Toll of Treatment
Advanced reproductive treatments can offer hope, but they also come with a physical and emotional burden that’s often overlooked. Hormone injections, egg retrievals, waiting periods, and uncertainty can be physically exhausting and emotionally draining.
Many patients report experiencing anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation throughout the process. In addition to the physical discomfort, there’s the emotional pressure of managing expectations, navigating complex decisions, and balancing personal relationships.
That’s why emotional support—whether through counseling, support groups, or compassionate clinical care—is just as important as the medical side of treatment. At TRIO Mississauga, we believe in supporting the whole person, not just their fertility journey.
Knowledge is Power
The more we talk about fertility preservation and reproductive technologies, the more we can empower people to take control of their futures. This includes educating young adults about their fertility health, offering early assessments, and normalizing conversations around fertility choices.
By raising awareness and advocating for equitable access, we can help more individuals make proactive, informed decisions—on their own terms.
References
- American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2023). Fertility Preservation and Reproductive Options. https://www.asrm.org
- Fertility Matters Canada. (2023). Fertility Preservation in Canada. https://fertilitymatters.ca
- Canadian Fertility and Andrology Society. (2022). Fertility and Access to Care in Canada. https://cfas.ca
- Mayo Clinic. (2023). Understanding IVF and Egg Freezing. https://www.mayoclinic.org
- Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & Gynecology. (2021). The Psychological Impact of Fertility Treatments on Patients.
- How Egg Freezing Supports Career and Life Planning, https://triomississauga.com/how-egg-freezing-supports-career-and-life-planning/
- Signs of High Fertility in Women, https://triomississauga.com/signs-of-high-fertility-in-women/
- Understanding the Effects of the Birth Control Pill: What You Need to Know, https://triomississauga.com/understanding-the-effects-of-the-birth-control-pill-what-you-need-to-know/